BEDE Events has announced a renewed commitment to supporting amateur riders throughout the 2026 British Eventing season, unveiling a suite of incentives and competitive opportunities designed to reward and encourage grassroots participation.
The Eco Voltz League, returning for 2026, will this year focus specifically on amateur riders. Uniquely, the league enables combinations to accumulate points across all competition levels and all BEDE-run events, allowing riders to progress through the levels without being restricted to a single division. The league opens at Oasby (1) on 11–12 March and concludes at Osberton (2) from 1–4 October, with the overall winner earning an exclusive Eco Voltz sponsorship for the 2027 season.
Also back for its third year is the popular Agria 100 League, which spans all BEDE Events BE100 classes and culminates in the Amateur BE105 at Osberton International in October. This league offers a £1,500 cash prize pot at season’s end and provides a structured MER (Minimum Eligibility Requirement) pathway for those aiming for the Osberton finale.
In addition to the main leagues, the UVEX Highest Placed Amateur Rider award will be presented in each section, with an event-wide winner at every fixture and an overall winner crowned at the close of the season.
BEDE Events Director Stuart Buntine commented:“Amateur riders are the lifeblood of our sport, and it is one of Eventing’s strongest USPs that amateurs get to compete against the elite professional rider week in, week out. We have always wanted to support the amateur rider and are delighted that Eco Voltz, Agria and Uvex share this same ethos, giving them bonus prizes and accolades to aim for.”
What Defines an Amateur Rider for BEDE Events?
To be eligible for BEDE Events’ amateur incentives, a competitor must meet all the following criteria:
- Riding is not their main job or primary source of income.
- They do not get paid to teach people to ride.
- They do not get paid to ride other people’s horses competitively during the season.
- They do not get paid for schooling or riding other people’s horses.
- They have not been part of any team or national training programme.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact the BEDE office for clarification. The Event Director may offer exemptions where appropriate.
To participate in these amateur initiatives, advanced registration is required. The BEDE office can clarify eligibility, with the Event Director able to offer exemptions as appropriate.
Full details on the leagues and amateur incentives are available at bede events.
